Castles of Ireland - Athcarne Castle

Locationnear Balrath, County Meath, Ireland

DescriptionAthcarne Castle is an Elizabethan castle situated about 17 miles from Dublin.

Athcarne Castle was originally a four storey tower house. It was renovated around 1830 with the addition of a large three storey extension and a thin turret tower. The castle now has the appearance of a mansion fused to a tower house.

HistoryAthcarne Castle was originally built for William Bathe in 1590. The Bathe family produced a number of well known legal and political personalities around the 16th and 17th century. The castle was inhabited until mid 20th century, and has since fallen into disrepair.

LegendsAthcarne Castle is located six miles from the site of the Battle of the Boyne in 1690. King James II is said to have stayed overnight at the castle on the eve of the battle.